BUTUAN CITY - Recognizing the importance of continued learning amid COVID-19 pandemic, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 13 (ATI-RTC 13) in coordination with the Bureau of Plant Industry – National Seed Quality Council Services (BPI-NSQCS) Region 13 conducted the online Refresher Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification for Seed Growers last July 27-31, 2020.

A total of 16 seed growers from the 3 priority provinces under the Rice Competitiveness Enhance Fund (RCEF) graduated from the course. Of them were four participants from Agusan del Norte, six from Agusan del Sur, and six from the province of Surigao del Sur.

Career and Development Management Service Section OIC Chief/Rice Point Person Ms. Violeta T. Laguna discussed the rationale and overview of the RCEF and its components which include: Rice farm machinery and equipment; Rice seed development, propagation, and promotion; Expanded rice credit assistance; and, Rice extension services. She also enumerated the mechanics and schedule of activities.

DA Caraga region Regional Seed Coordinator Mr. Noli G. Orog presented the regional roadmap of the rice and seed industry. He reviewed the key roles of the seed growers in meeting the demands for seed. He also enumerated the various support and interventions of the government for the seed growers. Meanwhile, Ms. Lita Amancia Yandug, Chief of BPI-NSQCS –Region 13 discussed the mechanics, policies and guidelines on seed certification. They were also joined by other NSQCS personnel namely Mr. Keven Mark Jimenez , Mr. Bellie Alegado and Mr. Jess A. Edralin who also shared their expertise as resource speakers.

At the end of the lectures, the participants were given assessment tests to determine the knowledge gained from the course. Certificates were also given to the graduates as proof of completion.

The five-day refresher course aimed to review and upgrade the seed growers’ existing knowledge and skills on inbred rice seeds production and more importantly to ensure the availability of quality rice seeds in the region. (with the report of Rejane Ata)